Political power brokers and public costs

philly.comGeorge E. Norcross, South Jersey power broker, has a confirmed outpost in Essex County

It’s (political) business as usual in Essex County.

Last night, as expected, the Essex County Board of Freeholders unanimously renewed its contract--for three years--with Conner Strong & Buckelew, a Marlton-based insurance brokerage firm whose executive chairman is South Jersey political boss George E. Norcross.

With little fanfare, evidently, and even less scrutiny, the Norcross firm will continue to provide “service” to the county, “service” it has provided uninterrupted for the past 14 years.

Never mind that New Jersey State Comptroller Matthew Boxer estimated the county could save millions by joining the state health benefits plan. Never mind that the county could save significant broker fees as well ($750,000 in broker fees were paid during the last two years; $675,000 for this contract).

Why does the county refuse to even consider coverage by the state health plan? One can only speculate. The reasons offered are neither explained nor challenged. And, so far as I know, Conner Strong has no competition either. I guess folks know what’s what.

There was one bright light in the otherwise dim evening: Chris Tyminski, president of the Essex County sheriff’s officers union said that he thought that "we’re doing an injustice if we don’t take a hard look" at the state plan.

Curious this observation since the primary reason offered by the supporters of the current arrangement is that any changes to benefits must be negotiated with all 26 unions. I wonder if anyone thought of asking the other 25 unions? And, just what are the difficulties that are never mentioned? Isn’t it the responsibility of the freeholders to obtain the best deal for the people? Too much trouble to try? Or is this just another public contract for a political insider?